Introducing free Wi-Fi in Tampa’s public outdoor spaces

Telecommuters in Tampa can now take advantage of complimentary wireless Internet connections in many of Tampa's outdoor spaces, including the Riverwalk and parks downtown. The service is maintained by Internet provider Bright House Networks, and can be accessed on any Wi-Fi enabled mobile device.

With 80 degree temperatures and soft winds, October may be the perfect month to take your work  outside, and enjoy green spaces on the water with coffee and a side of business. Bright House announced the service earlier this year, and will provide special perks to current subscribers: unlimited access to the hotspots at no additional costs. Non-customers can spend two hours a day on the wireless network (with a monthly limit of one gigabyte of service), and buy additional time as needed. 

So far, connections are live along the Riverwalk, Water Works Park, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park.

Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn announced the rollout on Tuesday, comparing free Internet to public art or performance festivals. The move, he hopes, will engage visitors with the area and foster activity along the scenic waterfront. On pleasant days, professionals and entrepreneurs can enjoy productive breaks and even meetings, outside of air conditioned offices. As more of the riverfront is redeveloped, the service is expected to expand. 

"We're bringing that service that our customers are asking for to make their lives a little easier," said Bright House spokesman Joe Durkin. The service provider underwrote the $1 million cost of the project at no expense to the city. In the process of improving service for subscribers, Bright House has taken on similar projects around Florida but not of this scale. Thanks to the initiative, residents can now enjoy outdoor office space in Tampa.